Graphic Design Research Assistant

 The Center for Early Childhood Education and Intervention (CECEI) is a joint initiative between the Department of Counseling, Higher Education and Special Education (CHSE) and the Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology (HDQM). The mission of CECEI is to conduct high quality research on early childhood education and early intervention programs in order to inform State and Federal policy, to translate research into scalable education programs and best practices, to build capacity in schools and communities, and to promote family engagement in their children’s education.

Children Study Their World (CSW) is an early childhood curriculum for 4-year-olds, based on principles of project-based inquiry and driven by evidence-based practices that build teacher capacity and support successful implementation. CSW was developed by the Center for Early Childhood Education and Intervention with funding from the Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Early Childhood.

The Graphic Design Research Assistant (GDRA) will primarily assist with tasks for the CSW curriculum and may also assist with related curricula projects. This is a great opportunity to build a project portfolio and gain applied graphic design and illustration experience.

Specifically, the GDRA will develop the visual assets for a picture book for early learning educators, using the existing CSW art style and graphics in addition to developing new graphics specific to the book. The Graphic Design RA will be responsible for design of original picture book scenes/backgrounds, editing and placement of existing character designs, text placement, cover design, and any other design tasks needed to complete the book. Existing CSW art files use the Adobe Illustrator format. The GDRA will additionally assist with developing needed artwork for other CSW and curricula-related materials.

Minimum Requirements:

● Currently enrolled in an academic program related to graphic design, illustration, or a closely related field

● A strong portfolio that includes relevant examples of graphic design and illustration projects

● Experience using Adobe Illustrator and related graphic design and illustration tools

● Evidence of strong communication skills, both oral and written

● Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills

● Attention to detail and ability to work autonomously

● Proficiency in using Google Suite

In the spring 2021 semester, the GDRA is to enroll in an independent study for which their work will count for course credit. The position would require 10 hours per week, which is generally the equivalent of 3 credit hours. The GDRA may be considered for a second semester based on performance and Center needs. 

Graduate AND undergraduate students may be considered.

To apply, please email a resume, cover letter, portfolio samples, and unofficial transcript to Naomi Patton at CECEI@umd.edu by 5 p.m., Monday, November 30th, with the subject line “CECEI Graphic Design RA 2021.”

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please email us with any questions or for more information.

For more information about our Center and the project, please visit our CECEI and CSW websites.